As a result of the partnership, students who participate in the Day of Design challenges will be awarded Credly badges that can be displayed on social media or embedded in websites, email signatures or digital portfolios.

"In order to prepare today's generation for the careers of tomorrow, we need to start building a foundation of design thinking that empowers students to craft innovative solutions to the world's most complex challenges," said Leslie Cruz, CEO of STEMconnector, in a prepared statement. "As important as it is to build this type of thinking at an early age, it's just as critical to ensure that individuals who demonstrate these skills are getting recognized, which is why digital badges are so important to showcase their achievements."

"Rapid shifts in demand for technical skills in STEM fields are creating unprecedented need for foundational skills, like experiential learning and design thinking, that translate into a cross-section of high-growth fields," said Jonathan Finkelstein, founder and CEO of Credly, in a news release. "Digital credentials that provide verified evidence of critical skills are fast becoming a digital currency used by individuals, education providers, and employers to communicate competencies and create pathways to opportunity."